The Energy Justice Forum (EJF), a coalition of energy rights advocates, has issued a stern warning to the new leadership of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), urging them not to repeat what it described as the “dollar-chasing, anti-local” policies of former CEO Mele Kyari.
In a statement released on Friday, EJF commended President Bola Tinubu for reinstating the naira-for-crude exchange policy, describing it as a major step towards reclaiming Nigeria’s economic independence and boosting local refining capacity.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Dr. Godknows Manager, EJF’s national president, hailed the policy as “the most patriotic move in recent times” and emphasized that the reform is meant to benefit all Nigerians, not just the Dangote Refinery.
“This is about more than Dangote. It’s about reviving Warri, Port Harcourt, and Kaduna refineries. It’s about shielding Nigerians from the trap of dollar-priced fuel,” Manager said.
He warned the newly appointed NNPCL Group CEO, Bayo Ojulari, and Board Chairman, Ahmadu Musa Kida, not to fall back into the old practices that, according to him, nearly crippled the economy and undermined local production.
“Continuing on the path left by Kyari would be catastrophic. We are talking about policies that weakened the naira, stalled local refining, and exposed us to external shocks,” he added.
EJF further praised Tinubu’s reforms for restoring hope and economic dignity to the nation. The group also vowed to hold the NNPCL leadership accountable.
“We are watching. Nigerians are watching. If the old ways sneak back, we will mobilize civil resistance,” Dr. Manager declared.
He called for a thorough audit of Kyari’s tenure, demanding transparency and full disclosure of all contracts, swap deals, and policies disguised as liberalization.
“Energy justice means open books, not that put Nigerians first.
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